18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Provider Score

The Provider Score for the Asthma Score in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania is 85 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

An estimate of 87.53 percent of the residents in 18509 has some form of health insurance. 39.77 percent of the residents have some type of public health insurance like Medicare, Medicaid, Veterans Affairs (VA), or TRICARE. About 60.51 percent of the residents have private health insurance, either through their employer or direct purchase. Military veterans should know that percent of the residents in the ZIP Code of 18509 have VA health insurance. Also, percent of the residents receive TRICARE.

For the 2,928 residents under the age of 18, there is an estimate of 2 pediatricians in a 20-mile radius of 18509. An estimate of 5 geriatricians or physicians who focus on the elderly who can serve the 2,124 residents over the age of 65 years.

In a 20-mile radius, there are 4,015 health care providers accessible to residents in 18509, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

## Asthma Score Analysis: Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18509)

Analyzing asthma care within Scranton, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18509) necessitates a multi-faceted approach. We must consider physician availability, the quality of care provided, and the accessibility of support services, all impacting an “Asthma Score” reflecting the ease with which residents can manage this chronic respiratory condition. This analysis will delve into these critical areas, offering a nuanced understanding of the local landscape.

The foundation of effective asthma management is access to qualified healthcare professionals. In Scranton, the physician-to-patient ratio, particularly concerning primary care physicians (PCPs) and pulmonologists, is a crucial factor. A low ratio, indicating fewer doctors per capita, presents a significant challenge. Patients may face longer wait times for appointments, potentially delaying diagnosis and treatment. Furthermore, follow-up care, essential for monitoring asthma and adjusting treatment plans, becomes more difficult to obtain. The availability of specialists, specifically pulmonologists with expertise in asthma, is also critical. Their specialized knowledge is vital for managing severe cases and complex presentations.

Primary care availability in Scranton is a significant component of the overall Asthma Score. The number of PCPs accepting new patients, their geographic distribution within the ZIP code, and their ability to provide comprehensive asthma care all contribute to the score. Practices that prioritize asthma management, offering patient education, regular spirometry testing, and personalized treatment plans, will positively influence the score. Practices that integrate asthma management into their overall patient care model are generally more effective.

Several factors can influence the Asthma Score. The first is the quality of care. This includes the adherence to national guidelines for asthma management, the use of evidence-based treatments, and the overall patient satisfaction with their care. Practices employing certified asthma educators, nurses specializing in respiratory care, and offering comprehensive patient education programs will likely achieve higher scores. The ability of a practice to provide coordinated care, involving specialists when needed, is also a key indicator of quality.

Telemedicine adoption has the potential to significantly impact the Asthma Score. Telemedicine allows patients to access care remotely, reducing the need for in-person visits, especially beneficial for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Practices offering virtual consultations, remote monitoring of lung function, and online patient education resources will improve the accessibility of care. Telemedicine can also facilitate timely interventions, helping to prevent asthma exacerbations and hospitalizations.

Mental health resources are often overlooked in asthma management, but they play a crucial role. Asthma can significantly impact a patient's quality of life, leading to anxiety, depression, and other mental health challenges. The availability of mental health services within the healthcare system is a critical factor. Practices that integrate mental health screening and counseling into their asthma care model will improve the overall well-being of their patients. Collaboration between PCPs, pulmonologists, and mental health professionals is essential for providing comprehensive care.

Identifying standout practices within ZIP Code 18509 is essential. Practices demonstrating a commitment to asthma management, offering comprehensive services, and achieving positive patient outcomes will be highlighted. These practices often have dedicated asthma programs, employ certified asthma educators, and utilize innovative technologies to improve patient care. Their success stories can serve as a model for other practices in the area.

The Asthma Score should also consider the availability of support services outside of the physician's office. This includes access to pharmacies with a wide selection of asthma medications, respiratory therapists, and community-based asthma education programs. The availability of these resources can empower patients to manage their condition effectively and improve their quality of life. The presence of support groups, where patients can share experiences and learn from each other, is also beneficial.

The overall Asthma Score for ZIP Code 18509 is a dynamic metric, influenced by various factors. The score should be regularly updated to reflect changes in physician availability, healthcare practices, and community resources. Regular assessments will help identify areas for improvement and ensure that residents have access to the best possible asthma care.

The impact of socioeconomic factors should also be considered. Patients with limited financial resources may face challenges accessing medications, transportation, and other essential services. Healthcare practices should be aware of these disparities and strive to provide equitable care to all patients. This includes offering financial assistance programs, providing language services, and addressing social determinants of health.

The analysis should also consider the prevalence of asthma within the community. Higher asthma rates may indicate environmental factors, such as poor air quality or exposure to allergens. Addressing these environmental factors is crucial for improving the Asthma Score and protecting the health of residents. Collaboration between healthcare providers, community organizations, and local government is essential for addressing these environmental challenges.

Understanding the asthma landscape in Scranton, PA (ZIP Code 18509) requires a comprehensive analysis. By considering physician availability, quality of care, telemedicine adoption, mental health resources, and community support, we can create a more accurate Asthma Score, ultimately benefiting the residents of Scranton.

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